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MYRTLE BEACH,MYRTLE BEACH,MYRTLE BEACH,MYRTLE BEACH,

SOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINA

Chris Robinson Associates Inc does not warrant the quality, accuracy or completeness of any claims, statements or information

contained within this document. This document was created at the time of broadcast and may not be current.

2007 Chris Robinson Associates Inc. www.chrisrobinsontravelshow.ca 2

MYRTLE BEACH The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches

from Little River to Pawleys Island. It comprises 12 cities along the South Carolina coast, each with their own identity, and unique qualities and attractions. Each year in early March, thousands of America’s Canadian neighbors and snowbirds visit from the North and scatter throughout the Grand Strand communities in advance of spring for the Canadian-American Days Festival. The almost two week long festival features events, activities and discounts, including welcome receptions, military band concerts, athletic tournaments and wildlife and history days. For more information, call (800) 356-3016 or visit www.CanAmDays.com . The area offers a hundred kilometers of sandy beaches. Canadians love Myrtle Beach for its world-class golf, entertainment, family attractions – and Southern hospitality. The Myrtle Beach area is an ideal location for multi-generational travel or family reunions. For visitors both tall and small, the Grand Strand offers attractions certain to please every age group. Beachfront hotels, timeshares and cottages offer spacious options that will accommodate families of all sizes. The Myrtle Beach area boasts more than 100 of the most unique, challenging and picturesque golf courses in the world, making it a premiere destination for golf enthusiasts and aficionados with more than four million rounds of golf played annually. Golfers can experience the beauty of oceanfront holes or stand in the midst of giant live oaks draped in Spanish moss on the site of a colonial rice plantation. Course designers have taken great pains to protect the natural habitat and wildlife indigenous to the Grand Strand while creating courses that are technically challenging and beautiful. Coming up are two delicious festivals celebrating “Carolina Coastal” cuisine. Taste! is the largest gourmet food, wine, and beer show in Myrtle Beach on May 14-16, 2010. The event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, live cooking demos, educational seminars, and presentations from Food Network stars. Visit www.tasteshows.com for more information. Coastal Uncorked will take place May 16 – 23, 2010. The event will feature a variety of exclusive offerings including: Restaurant Week, Wine Around Myrtle Beach, a Coastal Uncorked Golf Tournament and the Coastal Uncorked Food Fight Chef Competition and Gala. For more




information, call (843) 916- 2000 or visit www.coastaluncorked.com . There’s lots new – the new mile-long Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade in downtown Myrtle Beach plus new attractions, hotels, spas and golf courses. Fly the new Porter Airlines service direct to Myrtle Beach from the Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre Airport. Or fly with Direct Air from Niagara Falls, New York.

Location The Myrtle Beach area is the jewel of South Carolina and is nestled along the mid-Atlantic region of the eastern United States

Geography Myrtle Beach is situated mainly between the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway on the west and the Atlantic Ocean (Long Bay) on the East, although building west of the waterway is rapidly increasing. The waterway is a slightly elevated sandbar or dune area. West of the waterway the land is mostly pine forest.

Name Named for its abundance of crape myrtle trees, Myrtle Beach is the largest beach resort along the Grand Strand.

Population Approximately 259,000 residents. Language English Currency US Dollars; the current exchange rate at March 2010 is 97 cents US to

the Canadian Dollar, which makes shopping in the US all the more attractive to Canadian travellers.

Tipping The custom of tipping is a common practice in Myrtle Beach: 15% to 20% for waiters; 10% to 15% for taxi drivers; $1 per bag for bellmen. Occasionally gratuities are automatically added to restaurant checks.

Government Democracy Documentation Passports are now required for Canadian visitors arriving either by

air or by car. Time zone Eastern Standard Time zone, as per Toronto and Montreal Health Excellent services available but ensure that you have traveller’s health

insurance as health costs in the US can be very high. Safety tips Myrtle Beach is relatively safe for the tourist. One should use the same

precautions as when traveling anywhere - try not to travel alone and avoid deserted areas at night.

CLIMATE General climate Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate. The city experiences

mild winters and a humid summer. The Myrtle Beach area enjoys an average of 215 sunny days each year.

Today’s weather 20 Centigrade and showers/sun mix (13 March 2010) Best time to visit The mild winters make golf possible throughout the year and spring like

weather for most of the cold Canadian months make Myrtle Beach attractive to Canadians throughout the winter. The Canadian American Days in March just add to the lure!




GETTING AROUND Getting There Porter Airlines

Myrtle Beach now has twice-weekly roundtrip air service by Porter Airlines from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on Thursdays and Sundays beginning February 28, continuing until May 30 2010. Porter Airlines features the only non-stop service from Canada to Myrtle Beach which saves passengers time by flying right to the beach. Golfers, families and friends can get away to Myrtle Beach's famous golf courses and sandy beaches more easily than ever with Porter Airlines' new winter seasonal service. One-way fares start at $179, plus taxes. Connections are available in Toronto from Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Thunder Bay. Located just one mile inland from the Atlantic Ocean, The Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) provides easy, one-stop and connecting flights to more than 350 destinations worldwide.

Cities Twelve Distinct Communities, Twelve Distinct Characters Stretching 60 miles along the South Carolina coast, the Myrtle Beach area encompasses many communities – 12, to be precise – and each with their own identity, and unique qualities and attractions. Though different, each community operates with Southern Hospitality in mind, welcoming visitors in to explore and appreciate what each has to offer. Myrtle Beach Families first began vacationing in Myrtle Beach (originally called New Town) more than a century ago, making their way from inland locales by horse and buggy, and then ferrying over the Waccamaw River to reach the undeveloped coast. Oceanfront development began in the early 1900s. Today, the Myrtle Beach area boasts hundreds of hotels, restaurants, attractions, retail stores, and other hospitality businesses. Aynor Affectionately called the “Little Golden Town,” Aynor is located in western Horry County. The town got its start in the early 1900s as a terminal for a railroad from Conway. Each September, the town hosts the Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Festival with crafts, food booths, music, dancing, and more. Conway Tree-lined streets, historic homes and churches, a revitalized business district, and the wondrous Waccamaw Riverwalk are what make Conway such a charming town. Conway has much to offer visitors, as well, including walking tours, riverboat cruises, antique shops,




restaurants and cafes, the Horry County Museum, art galleries and numerous historic landmarks along the centuries-old oak trees lining the streets. Little River Little River was a popular harbor for pirates in the 1700s and Civil War blockade-runners in the 1800s. Little River’s most popular event is the Blue Crab Festival, held each May. Arts and crafts, entertainment, and educational exhibits are featured alongside booths offering a variety of delicious foods – including crab cakes, steamed crabs, and other blue crab creations. Loris Located 35 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach, Loris’ claim-to-fame is its annual Loris Bog-Off, a festival and chicken bog cooking contest that draws huge crowds each year. A local specialty, chicken bog is made with chicken, rice, sausage, and assorted seasonings. North Myrtle Beach North Myrtle Beach was founded more than 30 years ago when the communities of Windy Hill, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive, and Cherry Grove united to form one specific area. North Myrtle Beach’s accommodations include everything from rustic beach cottages and mom-and-pop motels, to luxury hotels and resorts. Of course, you can’t describe North Myrtle Beach without mentioning the shag, a dance that originated here and continues to thrive in local dance clubs and at annual shag reunions. Atlantic Beach Nicknamed The Black Pearl, the Town of Atlantic Beach was formed mostly of Gullah/Geechee people, descendants of slaves who lived for 300 years on the Sea Islands stretching from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Jacksonville, Florida. Today, Atlantic Beach is a revitalized community rich in heritage with several festivals and cultural events – like the Gullah/Geechee Festival - taking place each year. Surfside Beach Surfside Beach, located on the South Strand, proudly calls itself “the family beach.” Along its lovely beachfront, visitors will find beach houses, hotels, condominiums, and a popular fishing pier. Garden City Beach To the south of Surfside Beach is Garden City Beach. The majority of Garden City’s vacationers stay in beach houses and condominiums.




With access to the ocean and inlet, Garden City Beach is a popular area for fishing, crabbing, and other water sports. The community has a fishing pier, marina, amusements, restaurants, and other businesses. Murrells Inlet Once the lair of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, Murrells Inlet is known as “the Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” earning its title from the fresh fish, clams, oysters and crabs pulled from the surrounding waters and prepared in the numerous restaurants nestled along the water’s edge. A 1,400-foot boardwalk aptly called The Marshwalk winds through the wetlands, offering stunning vistas and glimpses of wildlife and waterfowl. Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island Litchfield Beach boasts quaint shops, delightful restaurants, quiet beaches, and an uncommon beauty. Its neighbor to the south, Pawleys Island, prides itself on being the oldest resort in America, once offering a summer respite for plantation owners and their families. Many of their treasured retreats still stand today.

Distances Myrtle Beach’s 12 communities are strung along 100kms of South Carolina coastline. The destination is around 1600km driving from Montreal and Toronto.

Boats Rover Tours Rover Tours offers guests multiple ways to experience South Carolina nature at its finest. From sailing the scenic waters of Winyah Bay aboard the “Jolly Rover”, to gliding through Carolina’s fragile wetlands on the “River Rover,” visitors will be fully immersed in some of the most beautiful sights from around the area. For more information, call (843) 546- 8822 or (800) 705-9063 or visit www.rovertours.com

Trains Myrtle Beach is served by a single rail line which essentially runs parallel to U.S. Route 501 from Conway ending in downtown Myrtle Beach.

Car Rental Car rental is available throughout the area and is highly recommended if you want to see and experience all this area has to offer, as the distances can be too far to walk.

Buses For those who are without a car, there is a regularly scheduled bus system called Lymo that travels around the Myrtle Beach area.

ACCOMMODATION TYPES

There are more than 425 hotels and 89,000 accommodation units in the Myrtle Beach area. From elegant golf and seaside resorts, to rustic cottages, bed & breakfasts, and mom-and-pop motels, the Myrtle Beach area offers accommodations for every taste and appealing to every type of traveler. There are also several campgrounds located between Myrtle Beach and the South Strand.




LIFESTYLES Kids The Myrtle Beach area is an ideal location for multi-generational travel

or family reunions. For visitors both tall and small, the Grand Strand offers attractions certain to please every age group. Beachfront hotels, timeshares and cottages offer spacious options that will accommodate families of all sizes. Check out these suggestions: Ripley’s Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach Sharks, jellyfish, stingrays and exotic fish are just a few of the creatures you’ll encounter at Ripley’s Aquarium. In February 2009, Ripley’s unveiled its newest exhibit, “Babies!,” devoted to nature's incubators - featuring baby sharks, seahorses, frogs, jellyfish and dinosaur eggs. Other Ripley’s attractions on the Grand Strand include Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, Ripley’s Moving Theater and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. For additional information, call (800) 734-8888, or visit www.RipleysAquarium.com . Alligator Adventure at Barefoot Landing One of the largest exotic reptile parks in the world awaits visitors at Barefoot Landing’s Alligator Adventure. Live shows, nature exhibits, zoological gardens, and a serpentarium provide a unique and thrilling experience for all ages. Highlights include albino alligators, river otters, bears and Utan, the largest crocodile ever to come to the United States. For additional information, call (843) 361-0789, or visit www.AlligatorAdventure.com . Children’s Museum of South Carolina Have you ever stood inside a bubble? Or taken a ride in a magic school bus? The Children’s Museum of South Carolina delivers the magic of discovery, and the fun of interactive learning. A great place for children and multi-generational families, the museum provides an environment where everyone is encouraged to touch, explore and play. For additional information, call visit www.CMSCKids.org . The Garden City Pavilion Arcade The Garden City Pavilion Arcade has over 200 arcade games to choose from! Perfect for a family outing, or spending a few hours out of the heat or rain- the arcade provides endless entertainment. For more information visit www.pieratgardencity.com/arcade IMAX 3D Theatre Myrtle Beach’s IMAX 3D Theatre showcases movies on an enormous screen with crystal clear, 3D images and unparalleled sound quality. A




visit to the IMAX can take you places you would never imagine. From exploring the prehistoric world of dinosaurs, to diving deep into the ocean blue, an IMAX experience is not to be missed! For more information, please visit www.imax3dmyrtlebeach.com or call (843) 448-IMAX (4629). The Lowcountry Zoo at Brookgreen Gardens The Lowcountry Zoo at Brookgreen Gardens is the only zoo on the coast of North and South Carolina that is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums - America’s most respected organization for zoos and aquariums. The zoo features a collection of animals native to the woods, swamps and waters of the Lowcountry, along with domestic animals of the plantation and cypress aviary. The zoo’s reflection of its native environment provides visitors with an experience that is truly unique. For more information, please visit www.brookgreen.org . Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum Featuring more than 500 unusual and macabre exhibits, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum will stimulate the mind and senses, from a roller coaster made of matchsticks to vampire skulls! Even the outside of the building will boggle travelers’ minds as it is designed to look like a hurricane-ravaged building about to fall to pieces. For more information please visit www.Ripleys.com or call (800) 734-8888. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure For those brave enough to enter, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure takes visitors on a tour of the old Grimsby & Streaper Casket Company. The company was originally run by two men from 1891 until they mysteriously disappeared one fateful day. Legend has it that the disappearances and odd happenings about town were blamed on the face that the company was built over a cave called The Sink- where many entered but never returned. For more information visit www.ripleysaquariaum.com/other_attractions.php Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze puts a new spin on the traditional house of mirrors. The walk-through attraction features hundreds of floor-to-ceiling mirrors that create nearly 2,000 square feet of mirrored paths, corners and dead ends. With multiple pathways throughout the maze, visitors can experience something new each time. For more information, please visit www.ripleysaquariaum.com/other_attractions.php




Ripley’s 4D Moving Theatre Experience film like never before! Ripley’s 4D Moving Theater system combines a high impact 70 mm film experience with computer controlled hydraulic seats that move in sync with the action taking place on the screen. The dynamic surround sound system and extra large screen bring the ride to life – making viewers feel like they are a part of the picture. For more information please visit www.ripleysaquariaum.com/other_attractions.php Waccatee Zoo This unique zoo is located on 500 acres of wooded property at the juncture of the Waccamaw River, Intracoastal Waterway and Socastee Creek. Besides housing more than 100 animal species, it is a natural wildlife sanctuary and breeding ground for many migratory birds. For additional information visit www.WaccateeZoo.com Family Kingdom Amusement Park & Water Park This family-oriented park is the home of the legendary all-wooden roller coaster, the Swamp Fox, along with a state-of-the-art log flume, an interactive laser dark ride called The Pistolero, and the 110-foot Slingshot. Among the park’s 33 other rides and attractions is a section called Kiddie Land with 18 rides for young children (including toddlers), and the Grand Stand’s only oceanfront water park. For additional information, call (843) 626-3447, or visit www.Family-Kingdom.com . Freestyle Music Park Freestyle Music Park is a 55-acre theme Park located in Myrtle Beach, S.C. The world-wide destination for the celebration of the revolutionary phenomenon of music, Freestyle Music Park has more than 50 attractions for music fans of all ages. These attractions include roller coasters, shows, children’s play areas, restaurants, cafes and retail stores, a multi-purpose live music amphitheatre and a Park-wide sound system, which creates an all-encompassing, family-fun experience. Immediately entering the gates, Freestyle Music Park guests are fully immersed in the language of music, as a wide variety of styles including country, reggae, beach music, pop, R&B, alternative, Christian, and disco are featured throughout the Park. At Freestyle Music Park, guests can indulge their inner “music star,” while enjoying the park’s many rides, shows and other attractions. The Myrtle Beach Park is the first to feature a music theme. For more information, visit www.freestylemusicpark.com . Myrtle Waves Water Park South Carolina’s largest water park offers 20 acres of themed




attractions and more than one million gallons of water. There is also a giant wave pool, lazy river and interactive Saturation Station, along with concessions, volleyball, group facilities, and more. For additional information, call (843) 913-9269, or visit www.MyrtleWaves.com . Pavilion Nostalgia Park Located at the famous Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, SC, Pavilion Nostalgia Park offers a classic collection of amusement rides, including the famous Herschell-Spillman Carousel – dating back to 1912. Families will delight in the dazzling, safe and affordable park. For additional information, call (843) 918-8725 or visit www.pavilionnostalgiapark.com . Wild Water and Wheels Theme Park This 16-acre park is packed with more than 33 exciting rides, including high-speed flumes, waterfalls, a wave pool, Adventure River Ride, kid’s slides and many other high-energy attractions. There’s also miniature golf, a video arcade, food court, picnic facilities and a separate racetrack complex with rides for all ages. For additional information, call (843) 238-3787, or visit www.Wild-Water.com . Miniature Golf: Golf fans of all ages can choose from a myriad of miniature golf themes, from man-eating dinosaurs and lava-spewing volcanoes, to high-seas adventures aboard pirate ships. The Grand Strand is considered the miniature golf capital of the world with 50 miniature golf courses to choose from, such as: - Hawaiian Rumble Miniature Golf, www.prominigolf.com/rumble.html -Hawaiian Village Miniature Golf, www.prominigolf.com/hawaiian%20village.html - Jungle Lagoon Miniature Golf, www.junglelagoon.com - Mount Atlanticus Minotaur Goff, www.MtAtlanticus.com

Teens MagiQuest at Broadway at the Beach Broadway at the Beach unveiled this exciting, interactive family attraction in 2005. MagiQuest utilizes patented technology to create a magical experience for participants. After selecting a magic wand, participants are quickly trained as “Magi,” allowing them to set off lightning bolts, control music, open treasure chests and perform heroic deeds. For additional information, call (866) 353-MAGI, or visit www.MagiQuestMB.com NASCAR SpeedPark This 26-acre race-themed amusement park is an officially licensed property of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing. Guests




can experience the excitement of NASCAR on seven challenging racetracks, a state-of-the-art interactive arcade, two 18-hole themed miniature golf courses, kid’s rides, a souvenir shop and a snack bar. For additional information, call (843) 918-TRAK, or visit www.NASCARSpeedPark.com Ocean’s treasures The coastal waters of South Carolina are teeming with seashells. In fact, more than 700 species live in these waters. Common local shells include whelks, angel wings, arks, pen shells, augers, cockles, slipper shells, jingles, coquina, and olive shells. Starfish, sea urchins, and sand dollars also can be found on area beaches. Sand dollars are an especially popular find. When these creatures are alive, they have a dark, fur-like covering. They turn white after they die, or when they wash up on the beach and the sun bleaches them out. Sand dollars are extremely fragile. Many souvenir shops sell sand dollars as well as post cards containing "The Legend of the Sand Dollar." Other seashells – both native and from other parts of the world – also are sold locally. Searching for fossils is another popular pastime. The most common fossils found on area beaches are sharks teeth, which are usually black or dark brown. Fossilized sharks teeth are millions of years old. Vacationers often purchase necklaces and other jewelry made with sharks teeth. Other fossils found in the area include animal bones, horses' teeth, and fossilized shells. The best times to look for shells and fossils are on an outgoing tide, during a new or full moon, and after a storm. Le Grande Cirque at The Palace Theatre The regal, 2,700-seat Palace Theatre is home to Le Grande Cirque, a mesmerizing spectacle of artistry and imagination performed by some of the world’s greatest acrobatic and theatrical performers. Le Grande Cirque features a cast of more than 50 world-class acrobats, jugglers and performers from China, Russia, Monte Carlo and Europe, all in one exhilarating show. For more information, call (800) 905-4228 or visit www.PalaceTheatreMyrtleBeach.com . LIGHT Presented by Calvin Gilmore LIGHT is America’s biggest multi-million dollar permanent laser light show, presented at the Gilmore Auditorium. The laser show is provided by Lightwave International, who provides lasers for big-name concert tours such as Madonna and Pink Floyd. The production can feature a number of themes, including Classic Rock, Christian, Patriotic, Family




Fun, Beatles, Led Zeppelin, U2, Pink Floyd and Holiday. The 45-minute running time is ideal for patrons of all ages, while the spectacular show ensures that all visitors will be left delighted and amazed. For more information, call (800) 843- 6779 or visit www.TheCarolinaOpry.com .

Romance With dazzling sunsets painting the horizon, and palmetto trees swaying in the gentle breezes, the Myrtle Beach area offers a picturesque location for a romantic getaway or beach wedding.

Honeymoons & Weddings

Boasting spectacular vistas of the Atlantic coastline, Myrtle Beach South Carolina beach wedding locations offer more than just pure romance. You can fill your days with championship golf, electrifying family entertainment, specialty shopping, and amusement parks … just to name a few. From quaint chapels nestled among ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss to beach nuptials with the sparkling coastline as the backdrop, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina wedding sites are beyond compare. A marriage license obtained in South Carolina is valid for a marriage ceremony anywhere in the state. Marriage license can be obtained from any county in South Carolina

Seniors This is an excellent Seniors destination: accommodations are suitable, the beach offers wonderful strolling opportunities, there’s lots going on in the evenings and it is very affordable. Many of the attractions offer discounts for Seniors.

UNIQUES Shag Dancing

Myrtle Beach is home to the time-honored tradition of shag dancing - also known as the Carolina Beach Shag. The shag dance started as a beach dance popular with young adults of the collegiate age back in the fifties and sixties. It has been referred to by some as “a sort of a lazy jitterbug” that used to be danced late at night on the beaches. The Ocean Drive section of North Myrtle Beach is where the Shag originated decades ago and continues to stand strong, housing a plethora of Shag dancing clubs such as Fat Harold’s Beach Club, Duck’s, and OD Lounge.

Surprising Piers Whether dangling your feet on the end of the dock, catching a boat tour, renting a jet ski, embarking on a dolphin watch cruise, or just enjoying the ocean scenery, the communities of Myrtle Beach offer up plenty of piers and locations to catch whatever wave you wish: • 2nd Avenue Pier, http://secondavenuepier.com • Apache Campground Pier, http://apachefamilycampground.com • Captain Dick’s Marina. www.captdicks.com • Cherry Grove Fishing Pier, www.cherrygrovepier.com • Myrtle Beach State Park Pier, http://www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/795.aspx




• Osprey Marina, www.ospreymarina.com • Pier 14, www.pier14.com • The Pier at Garden City, www.pieratgardencity.com • Springmaid Beach Pier, http://springmaidbeach.com • Surfside Beach Fishing Pier, www.surfsidepier.com

History Prior to the arrival of Europeans, the general area along Long Bay was inhabited by the Waccamaw Indians. The Waccamaw used the river for travel and fished along the shore around Little River. Waties Island, the primary barrier island along Long Bay, has evidence of burial and shell mounds, remains of the visiting Waccamaw. The first settlers along Long Bay arrived in the late 18th Century, attempting to extend the plantation system outward towards the ocean. They were met with mixed results, producing unremarkable quantities of indigo and tobacco. The coast's soil was sandy and most of the crop yields were of an inferior quality. Prior to the American Revolution, the area along the future Grand Strand was essentially uninhabited. Several families received land grants along the coast. As America reached independence, Horry County remained essentially unchanged, and the coast remained barren. George Washington scouted out the Southern states during his term, travelling down the King's Highway. In 1822, a strong hurricane swept the house of R. F. Withers into the ocean, drowning 18 people inside. The tragedy made the Withers family decide to abandon their plots along the coast, and the area, left unattended, began to return to forest. Following the Civil War, most of the abandoned land along the ocean was purchased by the Conway Lumber Company, now New South Lumber (a subsidiary of Canfor Corporation). The company built the Conway & Seashore Railroad to move chopped timber from the coast inland. After the railroad was finished, employees of the lumber and railroad company would take train flatcars down to the beach on their weekends off, in essence becoming the first Grand Strand tourists. The area where the railroad ended was nicknamed "New Town", contrasting it with the "Old Town", or Conway. At the turn of the 20th Century, Joe Mercier envisioned turning New Town into a tourist destination, a coastal town rivaling the northern beaches like Coney Island. Burroughs died in 1897, but his sons completed the railroad's expansion to the beach and opened the Seaside Inn in 1901, to house new visitors. Founded in 1938, it continued to grow for the next couple of decades, and in 1957, it finally incorporated. A contest was held to name the town and Burroughs' wife suggested honoring the locally abundant shrub, the




wax myrtle. So the town was named Myrtle Beach. Books Frommer’s The Carolinas and Georgia 1000 Places to See Before You Die

Charleston – Just a drive away from Myrtle Beach, Charleston is the USA’s most intact colonial city with historic architecture and an exciting arts and restaurant scene.

Must Sees Downtown Myrtle Beach Boardwalk The new downtown Boardwalk is part of the new efforts the city is taking in order to revamp old downtown Myrtle Beach. The mile-long Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade is planned for the area between the 14th Avenue North Pier and the Second Avenue North Pier, and will extend all the way to First Avenue.

SPORTS ACTIVITIES Though long referred to as the “seaside golf capital of the world,” the

Myrtle Beach area has a new moniker, Sportstown USA , thanks to Sports Illustrated magazine and the National Recreation and Park Association. Offering hundreds of thrilling options, such as zooming around a racetrack, hitting a golf ball, tennis, horse excursions, observing wildlife and nature by bike, or even dolphin watching cruises, Myrtle Beach area provides your ticket to fun. The Ripken Experience The Ripken Experience opened in June 2006 as one of the nation’s top youth sports facilities, boasting six youth- and three regulation-size baseball fields, each modeled after one of the game’s historic ballparks: Polo Grounds, New York; Comiskey Park, Chicago and Forbes Field, Pittsburgh. The Ripken Experience brings tournament play and baseball camps to the Myrtle Beach area. Each of the fields at The Ripken Experience is made from FieldTurf®, the game’s most advanced artificial surface. Residents and visitors to the Myrtle Beach area are invited to watch more than 20 youth baseball and softball tournaments annually at The Ripken Experience fields. For more information, telephone (843) 918-7815 or visit www.TheRipkenExperience.com . Myrtle Beach Speedway Spectators can enjoy professional and amateur racing on a half-mile, tri-oval asphalt track sanctioned by NASCAR. Races are scheduled every Saturday from April through September, with special events adding to the fun. For more information, call (843) 236-0500 or visit www.MyrtleBeachSpeedway.com

Golf The Myrtle Beach area boasts more than 100 of the most unique, challenging and picturesque golf courses in the world, making it a premiere destination for golf enthusiasts and aficionados with more than four million rounds of golf played annually. Golfers can experience the beauty of oceanfront holes or stand in the




midst of giant live oaks draped in Spanish moss on the site of a colonial rice plantation. Course designers have taken great pains to protect the natural habitat and wildlife indigenous to the Grand Strand while creating courses that are technically challenging and beautiful. Among the world-renowned architects: Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, Greg Norman, Gary Player, and Pete and P.B. Dye. The majority of the Myrtle Beach area’s golf courses are open to the public. Many host professional and amateur tournaments including the PGA TOUR Superstore World Amateur Handicap Championship each fall, which is played out on more than 70 different courses throughout the destination. Nearly one-third of the Myrtle Beach area’s golf courses are rated with four-stars or higher in Golf Digest’s “Places to Play” and seven courses are ranked among the “Top 100 Public Courses in America.” In 2002, the Myrtle Beach area was designated “Golf Destination of the Year” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, winning out over such hotspots as Palm Springs, Hilton Head, Northeast Florida, Scotland, Ireland, and previous winners including the Algarve in Portugal. Here’s just a partial listing for Myrtle beach: Arcadian Shores Golf Club – (866) 326-5275 Arrowhead Country Club – www.Arrowheadcc.com ; (800) 236-3243 Burning Ridge Golf Club – www.classicgolfgroup.com ;(800) TEE-OFFS The Dunes Golf and Beach Club – www.DunesGolfandBeachClub.com Grand Dunes Golf Club - (843) 449-7070 Man O’War – www.ManOWarGolfCourse.com ; (843) 236-8000 Myrtle Beach National – (800) 344-5590 Myrtlewood Golf Club – www.myrtlewoodgolf.com ; (800) 283-3633 Pine Lakes Country Club – www.pinelakes.com ; (866) 772-4669 River Oaks Golf Plantation – www.RiverOaksGolfPlantation.com Waterway Hills – (800) 344-5590 Whispering Pines Golf Course – www.wpinesgolf.com ; (843) 918-2305 Wild Wing Plantation – www.WildWing.com ; (800) 736-WING Witch of Myrtle Beach – www.witchgolf.com ; (843) 448-1300 The Wizard – www.WizardGolfCourse.com ; (843) 236-9393

Fishing Fishing along the Grand Strand can be enjoyed from one of eight fishing piers located along the beach, as well as from backwater creeks between Georgetown and Little River – where the crabbing is also great! More serious anglers can board a boat for bottom fishing, or venture all the way to the Gulf Stream, just 60 miles offshore, for true deep-sea sports fishing experiences. Also, each year, visitors can enjoy the Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo. Anglers of all ages enter for a chance to win cash and other prizes




totaling more than $20,000. From April – October, fisherman can enter their catch... caught from pier, surf, inlet or deep sea and you could win monthly decals, shoulder patches, cash and merchandise. Because of the warming temperature of the Gulf Stream, fishing is good from early spring until around Christmas. You can pursue king mackerel, spadefish, amberjack, barracuda, sea bass, and Spanish mackerel, along with grouper and red snapper. Captain Dick's offers three charters that go as far as 60 miles offshore. The Sea Bass Fishing Adventure is a half-day trip that's usually conducted every Thursday between noon and 8pm. It's priced at $44 for adults and $26 for children 12 and under. The rates include rod and reel, bait, tackle, and license. For more information about Myrtle Beach fishing trips, parasailing or water activities, contact: • Capt. Dick’s Deep Sea Fishing & Water sports, www.captdicks.com • Captain Smiley Charters, www.captainsmileyfishingcharters.com • Downwind Sails, www.downwindsailsmyrtlebeach.com • Enchanted Sailing Charters, www.downwindsailsmyrtlebeach.com • Express Watersports, www.expresswatersports.com • Fishhook Charters, www.fishhookcharters.com • Getaway Adventures, (843) 663-1100 • Little River Fishing Fleet, www.littleriverfleet.com • Longway Fishing Charters, www.longwaycharters.com • Lucky Strike Charters, www.luckystrikesportfishingcharters.com • Myrtle Beach Watersports, http://myrtlebeachwatersports.com • New Double “R” Charter Fishing, www.newdoubler.com • Ocean Watersports, www.parasailmyrtlebeach.com • Shallow Minded Inshore Charters, www.fishmyrtlebeach.com • Thomas Outdoors Watersports, www.mbjetski.com

Horse riding Inlet Point Plantation provides horseback rides – telephone (843) 249-2989

Hiking Waccamaw Riverwalk Situated in Conway, SC, the Waccamaw Riverwalk is a fresh boardwalk that winds along the beautiful banks of the Waccamaw River – once called “the boldest river in South Carolina. Visitors to the Riverwalk can partake in a number of activities from canoeing to pontoon and fishing boat rentals. Guided expeditions and walks are also available. For those who opt to simply take a relaxing stroll, there are riverfront dining options or visitors can even pack a picnic from one of the neighboring eateries on Main St. For more information call (843) 248-1700.

Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk Located in the heart of the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” the




Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is a beautiful way to enjoy the beauty, wildlife and spectacular scenery of the community of Murrells Inlet’s saltwater estuary. Built along the marshes dotted with picturesque seafood dining establishments, the Marshwalk offers not only a freshly quaint environment, but also a chance to embark on seafaring adventures like boating/fishing excursions and watersports. For more information visit www.murrellsinletmarshwalk.com .

Cycling The Boardwalks are perfect for biking and the flat coastal routes are easy on the legs!

Diving For those looking to descend below the water, there are several historical shipwrecks that can be explored via scuba diving, including the Hebe, a Dutch merchant ship, St. Cathan, a British submarine chaser, and the Richmond, a passenger ship that sank off the shores of the Grand Strand. Other above-water activities along the beach include parasailing, surfing, boogie-boarding, windsurfing and kite surfing.

CULTURE Theatre of the Republic

The Theatre of the Republic’s mission is to provide affordable and quality community theatre for everyone. The theatre is housed within a beautifully renovated historical building on Main Street in downtown Conway, and has entertained theatre lovers for over 40 years. In addition to six main season shows, Theatre of the Republic produces everything from musical revues, to holiday shows and children's theatre productions. The non-profit Theatre of the Republic was named the official theatre of Horry County in 1975. For more information call (843) 488-0821 or visit www.theatreoftherepublic.com The Alabama Theatre Gaylord Entertainment presents ONE The Show at the Alabama Theatre, featuring multi-talented entertainers performing America’s favorite music including country, Broadway, bluegrass and gospel, as well as comedy, dance and more. The 2009 Guest Artists Concert Series will welcome touring acts such as Merle Haggard, Clint Black, Loretta Lynn, Little Richard, Engelbert Humperdink, George Jones and many others. For more information, call (800) 342-2262 or visit www.Alabama-Theatre.com . Atlantic Stage In partnership with Coastal Carolina University, Atlantic Stage is the first and only professional theatre company in the Myrtle Beach area. Atlantic Stage was formed in August 2008 and is comprised of professional directors and designers, as well as professional actors and stage managers who are members of the Actors Equity Association. It is committed to bringing the Myrtle Beach area the best in Broadway,




Off-Broadway and new plays from regional theatre across the United States. A not-for-profit theatre, Atlantic Stage is funded through ticket sales, private donations, and in kind donations from Coastal Carolina University and the Department of Theatre, the Horry County Arts and Cultural Council and individuals. For more information, visit www.atlanticstage.com .

Arts Brookgreen Gardens - Sculpture Considered the finest outdoor presentation of American figurative sculpture in the world, Brookgreen Gardens was created in the early 1930s by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington on the site of four former rice plantations. Brookgreen Gardens is home to more than 900 works (550 currently displayed) by 300 of the greatest names in American sculpture, past and present. In addition to the Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington Sculpture Garden, visitors can explore the Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve, containing acre upon acre of native plants and animals, and the E. Craig Wall Jr. Lowcountry Center, featuring exhibits and educational programs focusing on the area’s rich history. Guests can visit varied ecosystems and historic sites via boat or overland aboard Springfield tidal creek excursions and Trekker back-roads excursions. For more information, call (843) 235-6000, or visit www.Brookgreen.com .

Music The Long Bay Symphony The Long Bay Symphony Orchestra has been performing 15-20 concerts each year since its founding in 1987. Offering a variety of classical music ranging from chamber music to a full orchestra and youth orchestra, The Long Bay Symphony provides a welcoming musical respite for visitors to the Myrtle Beach area. Adult tickets are available for $20 - $45 and student tickets are offered at $10, making an evening at the symphony accessible for all family visitors. The Carolina Opry If you are looking for the best live entertainment attraction in Myrtle Beach look no further than The Carolina Opry Theater, home to the best shows on the Grand Strand. The theatre presents three award-winning live entertainment experiences, The Carolina Opry, Good Vibrations and The Carolina Opry Christmas Special. The Carolina Opry is the only show on the Grand Strand to be highly acclaimed by New York Times, CNN, USA Today, NBC Nightly News and many more, the only show to receive the state’s highest tourism awards, the Governor’s Cup and Most Outstanding Attraction, and the only show to be voted Best Show in Myrtle Beach every year since the poll began. The award-winning show blends two hours of critically acclaimed music, comedy and dance in a 2,200-seat theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound.




http://www.thecarolinaopry.com House of Blues The House of Blues attracts standouts in the world of blues, jazz, gospel and rock. Norah Jones, Edwin McCain, Keith Urban, Hootie & The Blowfish and Chris Isaak are just a few of the headliners who have appeared on the Myrtle Beach stage. Other big draws include the Sunday Gospel Brunch, Teen Dance Night, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater and the all-new Rockstar Karaoke, where amateurs take the stage to sing their favorite tunes, accompanied by a live band. For more information, call (843) 272-3000 or visit www.HoB.com . Legends in Concert In 2006, Calvin Gilmore’s two-year-old Tribute Show, formerly located in North Myrtle Beach, merged with the ever-popular Legends In Concert at the Surfside Beach location. The show features state-of-the-art lighting, sound and technical equipment and a cast of dynamic tribute artists portraying such show business greats as Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Rod Stewart, Elvis Presley and a host of others. For more information, call (800) 960-7469 or visit www.LegendsInConcertSC.com

Museums Rice Museum The story of the rice culture in Georgetown County is captured here. Through maps, dioramas, artifacts and other exhibits, visitors to the museum gain a knowledge and understanding of a society based on one crop. The museum is located in the Old Market Building, erected in 1842 and the first Georgetown structure to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In the adjacent Maritime History Gallery is Brown's Ferry Vessel, a 50' river freighter built in 1710, sunk around 1730 and the oldest boat in North America. Wonderworks Science Center Wonderworks - a hands-on science attraction - is slated to open in Myrtle Beach in spring 2010. The attraction will be housed at family favorite Broadway at the Beach, and will include peculiar yet whimsical sights such as an upside-down building, a volcano, a lighthouse, and an Egyptian pyramid. Wonderworks has two other locations in Orlando and in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and two others are planned at the Meadowlands Xanadu in New Jersey and in Panama City, Fla. The Myrtle Beach site will be one of the largest, with about 35,000 to 40,000 square feet of attractions that allow people to feel what it's like to be in an earthquake and hurricane, fly a NASA space shuttle or fighter jet, or ride a virtual rollercoaster.

Festivals 4th of July Boat Parade (Murrells Inlet) Each Independence Day, Myrtle Beach locals and guests celebrate in




style with the July 4th Boat Parade in Murrells Inlet. Decorated boats sail down the parade route with festival goers watching from equally decorated docks of the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk and picturesque restaurants. The day concludes with a spectacular firework display in the Inlet, and awards for the best boat and dock decorations. For more information call (843) 651-5675 or visit www.murellsinletsc.com . Aynor Harvest HoeDown Anyor Harvest HoeDown is an autumn event the whole family can enjoy. The day-long festival in September showcases over 140 craft booths, entertainment, food, games, plus a parade and a street dance to top it all off! For more information, visit www.aynorscchamber.org . Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival The “grand finale” of summer, this Labor Day weekend festival, which draws between 50,000 and 60,000 visitors, features the official barbeque competition of South Carolina, car shows, live entertainment and Kids Zone among other events held at Grand Park across from The Market Common. For more information, call (800) 356-3016 or visit www.BeachBoogieBarbequeFestival.com . Blue Crab Festival Each May, the community of Little River, SC plays host to the annual Blue Crab Festival, drawing in excess of 50,000 people who come out to enjoy a weekend of live music, arts and crafts, beautiful seafaring culture, and of course…sweet and savory blue crab! The 2010 Blue Crab Festival will be held in May. For more information call (843) 249-1682 or visit www.bluecrabfestival.org . Bluegrass on the Waccamaw Each May, the quaint community of Conway, SC is host to the Bluegrass on the Waccamaw festival, offering an array of musical acts in Historic Downtown Conway's Riverfront Park just beneath the Waccamaw River Bridge. First organized in 1997, the festival is presented by community-member Jennings Chestnut, Sr. – owner of the Chestnut Mandolin Shop on Main Street, Conway – bringing local, regional, and national groups together for “World Class Bluegrass” on the grounds of the Old Peanut Warehouse in Conway. For more information, call (843) 248-5399 or visit www.bluegrassonthewaccamaw.com . Canadian-American Days Festival Each year in early March, thousands of America’s Canadian neighbors and snowbirds visit from the North and scatter throughout the Grand




Strand communities in advance of spring for the Canadian-American Days Festival. The almost two week long festival features events, activities and discounts, including welcome receptions, military band concerts, athletic tournaments and wildlife and history days. For more information, call (800) 356-3016 or visit www.CanAmDays.com . Coastal Uncorked Coastal Uncorked is the Myrtle Beach area’s premier food and wine festival, celebrating its inaugural season in the spring of 2010. The festival will take place May 16 – 23, 2010 and all proceeds will be donated to two local hospitality programs: the Horry Georgetown Technical College Culinary School and the Clay Brittain Hospitality Program at Coastal Carolina University. The event will feature a variety of exclusive offerings including: Restaurant Week, Wine Around Myrtle Beach, outdoor entertainment, a Coastal Uncorked Golf Tournament and the Coastal Uncorked Food Fight Chef Competition and Gala. The eight-day festival will also include a variety of other events, including a poster competition, children’s culinary events, live music and a cake competition. For more information, call (843) 916- 2000 or visit www.coastaluncorked.com . Gullah/Geechee Festival (Atlantic Beach) This August festival celebrates the history and culture of the Gullah/ Geechee heritage- descendants of slaves from the west coast of Africa. Soul food and tasty Southern dishes are served to visitors in Atlantic Beach, while various activities and lectures give a glimpse into the rich culture of the Gullah /Geechee people. For more information call (843) 663-1433. Loris Bog Off The community of Loris’ annual Bog Off is a celebration of heritage expressed through a top notch cooking competition to determine the best Chicken bog – a spicy blend of rice, chicken sausage, onion and black pepper served in a “big ‘ol bowl.” In addition to the competition the weekend also includes a parade, arts/crafts, and live entertainment. The 31st annual Loris Bog Off will be celebrated in October, 2010. For more information visit www.LorisChamberSC.com . Murrells Inlet Annual Oyster Roast The historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet serves up an afternoon filled with bushels and bushels of sweet local oysters during the community’s annual Oyster roast in November. Oyster fans can enjoy a great all-you-can-eat afternoon of steamed oysters and great offerings from Dead Dog Saloon, Drunken Jack’s, Divine Fish House, Bovine’s, River




City Cafe and more alongside live music. For more information call (843) 357-2007 or visit www.murrellsinletsc.com Rivertown Jazz and Arts Festival (Conway) This annual festival is held on the banks of the Waccamaw River in downtown Conway. The all-day event highlights jazz and art favorites and delicious food-while providing guests with a lively downtown scene. The festival is scheduled in May. For more information visit www.conwaymainstreet.com . Shrimp & Jazz Festival Combining the very best in live jazz music and flavorful locally sourced shrimp, the Shrimp & Jazz Festival in the seafaring community of Little River, SC is a fall afternoon treat held each year in early October. For more information call (843) 249-6604 or visit www.shrimpandjazzfest.org . Sun Fun Festival The first Sun Fun Festival in 1951 was conceived to attract vacationers during the period between the end of the school year and the July 4th holiday. Almost sixty years later the area’s official kick-off to summer is still going strong, drawing upwards of 35,000 attendees each year. The festival is held the first weekend of June at Grand Park across from The Market Common on the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. Sun Fun features live entertainment, a Kids Zone, food and arts/crafts vendors and much more. For more information, call (800) 356-3016 or visit www.SunFunFestival.com .

ATTRACTIONS The beach is certainly the Myrtle Beach area’s No.1 attraction, but the

fun does not end with surf and sand. The Grand Strand offers a wide range of unique attractions and exciting entertainment options from shopping, dining and theme parks, to live entertainment theaters, nightclubs and celebrity concerts.

Beaches The World’s Best Beach: Myrtle Beach’s gorgeous beaches beat out those in such exotic locales as Sydney, Australia; Miami, Florida; and Honolulu, Hawaii, in the April 2007 poll of hottest beaches conducted by Yahoo! Travel. The Grand Strand won first place as the “World’s Best Beach” based on consumer ratings collected through the prominent online travel site. Myrtle Beach has been a presence on Yahoo!’s “World’s Best Beach” poll every year since 2003.

Wildlife Hobcaw Barony Hobcaw Barony is a 17,500-acre wildlife refuge on the southern end of the Grand Strand on 14 former rice plantations. Its current use - aside




from day-tripper visits to its interesting and remote trails - is for the purposes of teaching and/or research in forestry, marine biology, and the care and propagation of wildlife, flora and fauna in connection with colleges and/or universities in the state of South Carolina. Tours are offered throughout the year as well as of the 1930 mansion of Wall Street financier Bernard Baruch who bought the property in 1905. For more information call (843) 546-4623 or visit www.hobcawbarony.org

Parks Myrtle Beach State Park Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s under President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal Program, Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park to open to the public. Because of this, the maritime forest was declared a Heritage Trust Site. This popular, 312-acre Park includes a nature center inhabited with snakes, turtles and marine animals, as well as a backyard wildlife habitat featuring a captivating butterfly garden and birdhouses. Both the Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park are known to be among the best bird-watching locations on the East Coast. Campsites, cabins, apartments and picnic areas are available. For more information call (843) 238-5325 or visit www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/795.aspx Huntington Beach State Park and Atalaya Huntington Beach State Park boasts a lagoon, maritime forest, salt marshes and three miles of the most well-preserved beach on the Grand Strand. The lush park environment provides prime habitats for wildlife including alligators and more than 300 recorded species of birds. The park is also home to Atalaya, the former winter home of prominent American sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington, whose works are displayed at Brookgreen Gardens. Other park amenities include a campground, education center, boardwalks and nature trails. For more information, call (843) 237-4440 or visit www.huntingtonbeachsc.org

Gardens Vereen Memorial Gardens One of the hidden gems of the Myrtle Beach Area, this park features an array of trails/paths that include boardwalks extending across several beautiful salt marshes and small islands. It is a peaceful sanctuary, enjoying a plethora of shaded areas and along with a scenic gazebo that overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway and the distant waterfront of Little River. For more information contact Horry County Parks and Recreation at (843) 915-5330.

Plantations Wedgefield Plantation Located at the southern tip of the Grand Strand, Wedgefield Plantation was once a flourishing rice plantation on the Black River in historic Georgetown. The fairways of the golf course wind through magnolias, dogwoods, century-old moss draped oaks, camellias, azaleas and a




wide variety of wild flowers. Wildlife abounds in this beautiful and challenging golf course, complete with exemplary Southern hospitality. Recognized in Golf Week's America's Best as one of the top 50 golf courses in South Carolina for 1994, it is often referred to as "the jewel at the end of a strand of pearls." Hopsewee Plantation Hopsewee Plantation is a South Carolina National Historic Landmark built in 1740 nearly 40 years before the Revolutionary War and once home of Thomas Lynch Jr, signer of the Declaration of Independence. The property is located on the North Santee River and has beautifully landscaped grounds and wooded nature trails. Visitors can tour both the main house and the grounds on weekdays (Monday – Friday) or by appointment. For more information, call (843) 546-7891, or visit www.hopsewee.com Lowcountry Plantation Tours Cap'n Rod Singleton brings a lifetime's experience of tales and folklore to Lowcountry Plantation Tours. A native of the lowcountry, Cap'n Rod weaves into his tours a magical mixture of antebellum history, lowcountry legends and personal experiences on the water. The year-round tours offer a unique opportunity to experience coastal South Carolina in ways never seen by the land-bound visitor.

Historical Sites The Hagood House Inn Situated in the quaint community of Aynor, SC, The Hagood House Inn delivers a historic journey back into the early twentieth century to its guests, with its old South-style wrap around porches and rockers, lovely gardens that include a 200 year old pecan tree, claw-foot tubs and wash basins circa 1900, along with a nice helping of picturesque common areas that contain an old baby grand piano, exquisite furnishings and a cozy library with fireplace. For more information call (866) 344~9337or visit www.thehagoodhouseinn.com .

Hobcaw Barony Hobcaw Barony is a 17,500-acre wildlife refuge on the southern end of the Grand Strand on 14 former rice plantations. Its current use - aside from day-tripper visits to its interesting and remote trails - is for the purposes of teaching and/or research in forestry, marine biology, and the care and propagation of wildlife, flora and fauna in connection with colleges and/or universities in the state of South Carolina. Tours are offered throughout the year as well as of the 1930 mansion of Wall Street financier Bernard Baruch who bought the property in 1905. For more information call (843) 546-4623 or visit www.hobcawbarony.org .




Hopsewee Plantation Located just south of Georgetown in the historic heart of the Myrtle Beach area, Hopsewee dates back to 1740 and was formerly a rice plantation and home to Thomas Lynch, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The plantation has an impressive collection of antique furniture and showcases beautifully manicured landscapes. For an extra dose of local history, the nearby Rice Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into pre-Civil War life in the area through maps, artifacts, exhibits and dioramas depicting life on rice plantations. The plantation is open Tuesday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. The plantation’s tea room is open by reservation. For more information, call (843) 546-7891, or visit www.hopsewee.com .

Litchfield Plantation Approaching Litchfield Plantation through a canopy of majestic Oak Trees instantly conjures images of the Old South for visitors to Myrtle Beach. This one-time coastal rice plantation now houses a variety of upscale lodging options spread across 600 acres of beautiful landscape. Classically opulent room décor and a variety of formal dining options that include the prestigious Carriage House Club provide visitors with an opportunity to be enveloped by local history throughout their stay. For more information, call (800) 869-1410, or visit www.litchfieldplantation.com .

Sea View Inn Since 1937, Sea View Inn has served as a tranquil “barefoot paradise.” Located on a private beach in the middle of Pawley’s Island, SC, the inn offers guests a comfortable and casual hideaway, full of charm and hospitality. Steeped in tradition and history, this beachfront escape is perfect for those looking to take a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, to enjoy the South Carolina coast at its finest. For more information, call (843) 237-4253 or visit www.seaviewinn.net .

Wedgefield Plantation Dating back to South Carolina’s Colonial Period, the Wedgefield Plantation is an iconic landmark in history and Southern culture, once serving as a prison during the Revolutionary War. Located at the southern end of the Grand Strand, the lush surroundings are also home to a golf course. For more information, call (843) 448-2124 or visit www.wedgefield.com




OTHER ACTIVITIES Shopping The Myrtle Beach area abounds with retail options from boutiques to

factory outlets to mixed-use shopping and entertainment complexes that tempt every imaginable budget, taste and style. Barefoot Landing At Barefoot Landing, shopping feels close to nature. Adjacent to miles of boardwalk overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway near North Myrtle Beach, the popular complex features more than 100 retail shops and 15 waterside restaurants, including the House of Blues restaurant and concert hall. Serious shoppers will find everything from apparel, jewelry and shoes to gifts, toys and specialty foods, while families will delight in Alligator Adventure and the Alabama Theatre. And when it’s time for a stroll, the breezy boardwalk awaits. For more information call (800) 272-2320 or visit www.bflanding.com . Broadway at the Beach With singing gondoliers in gondolas, themed restaurants such as Hard Rock Cafe, Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville and Planet Hollywood and more than two dozen new shops, Broadway at the Beach brings the best of shopping and entertainment together on 350 acres in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Surrounding a lovely 23-acre lake, its more than 100 boutiques offer apparel for men, women and children, shoes, sporting goods, toys, artwork, jewelry, gifts, housewares, beauty products and one-of-a-kind items. Visitors can choose from 20 restaurants, ten nightclubs and three on-site hotels. Broadway’s fun family attractions include IMAX Discovery Theater, MagiQuest, Ripley’s Aquarium, Pavilion Nostalgia Park and a 16-screen movie theater. For more information, call (800) 386-4662 or visit www.broadwayatthebeach.com Coastal Grand Mall Located near Myrtle Beach International Airport, the area’s newest mall is also South Carolina’s largest with more than 100 shops and a 14-screen stadium-seating cinema. Shoppers will find jewelry, books, electronics, clothing, shoes, sporting goods, furniture, beauty products, perfume, candy and gifts, as well as dozens of eateries for every palate. Among the emporium’s big-name tenants are Bed, Bath & Beyond, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Starbucks, Gap, Victoria’s Secret, Sephora and is anchored by Belk, Dillards, JCPenny and Sears. For more information, call (843) 839-9100 or visit www.coastalgrand.com . Inlet Square Mall Located south of Myrtle Beach on Highway 17 in Murrells Inlet, known as the seafood capital of South Carolina, this shopping mall features




more than 55 boutiques and shops. Amenities currently include a soft tumbling and play area for children. For more information, call (843) 651-6990 or visit www.inletsquaremall.com . The Market Common Opened in 2008 located on the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, The Market Common is the Grand Strand’s first urban village -- a mixed-use residential and retail development that boasts six restaurants and approximately 50 retail stores. Apartments and condos are housed above the retail area in a pedestrian-friendly design. Among the tenants are P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (South Carolina’s first), Pottery Barn, Ann Taylor, Orvis outdoor store, Tommy Bahama, Chico’s, Banana Republic, Coldwater Creek, Anthropologie, Copper Penny, Gordon Biersch Brewery, White House/Black Market, a 16-screen movie theater and an upscale Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Communities of town homes and single-family homes are currently developed near the site of the village. For more information, call 843-839-3500 or visit www.marketcommonmb.com . Myrtle Beach Mall Formally known as the Colonial Mall, the Myrtle Beach Mall boasts a brand-new 12-screen movie theater and the only Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in the state. The Myrtle Beach Mall in North Myrtle Beach offers visitors the chance to browse for books, fashions, electronics, home furnishings, jewelry, eyewear, sporting goods, shoes and health and beauty products. The mall also provides guest services such as a soft play area for kids, a family room, gift-wrapping, wheelchairs (free) and stroller rentals. And post-shopping, whether you crave Japanese, American, Chinese or Italian fare (or just ice cream and cookies), Myrtle Beach Mall has it all. For more information, call (843) 272-4040 or visit www.shopmyrtlebeachmall.com . Tanger Outlet Center (North) Head to Highway 17 and the Grand Strand’s newest outlet plaza for more than 100 brand-name manufacturer and designer outlet stores including Coach, Fossil, Kenneth Cole, Liz Claiborne, Nine West, Polo Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Ann Taylor, Kate Spade, Reebok, Samsonite and many more. Plus, the center is brimming with tempting restaurants and specialty shops for housewares, perfume, books and gifts. For more information, call (843) 449-0491 or visit www.tangeroutlet.com . Tanger Outlet Center (West) This sister shopping haven to Tanger North sits on Highway 501 in




Myrtle Beach and features J. Crew, Izod, Cole Haan, Rockport and Revere factory stores, among almost 100 other shops of every nature. The newly expanded center includes numerous dining options such as Outback Steakhouse and Ruby Tuesday. For more information, call (843) 236-5100 or visit www.tangeroutlet.com . Pawleys Island Hammock Shops Travel along the coast just 20 miles south of Myrtle Beach to Carolina Lowcountry and discover a shopping experience like no other—more than 20 specialty shops and restaurants amid a pastoral village setting of Lowcountry cottages, graceful oak tress, fragrant azaleas and comfy hammocks for visitors to enjoy. Founded in 1938, Pawleys Island Hammock Shops Village is the birthplace of the rope hammock and a beloved local landmark that prides itself on its unique shops, galleries and cafés including The Hammock Shop General Store, the Dog & Cone and High Hammock restaurant. For more information, call (843) 237-8448 or visit www.thehammockshops.com .

Markets Myrtle’s Farmer Market in Downtown Myrtle Beach Myrtle Beach has its very own fresh farmers market, open three days a week, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Myrtle’s Market offers an array of culinary favorites, fresh fruits and vegetables, plus seasonal items. The market is located on Mr. Joe White Avenue at Oak Street. For more information call (843) 457-5618.

Nightlife Celebrity Square at Broadway at the Beach Celebrity Square is a New-Orleans style boulevard bursting with ten of Myrtle Beach’s hottest clubs and nightspots, from the well-known Hard Rock Café and Margaritaville to haunts like Crocodile Rocks and Fat Tuesday. Travelers can eye out for in-season Happy Hours, street parties and daily specials; there is always something new to entertain visitors! For more information call (800) 386-4662 or visit www.broadwayatthebeach.com/nightlife.html .

Carolina Improv Company Carolina Improv Company (CIC) presents interactive improv comedy, appropriate for all ages, in which the audience becomes a part of the show. Think “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” CIC also offers improv classes to adults, as well as teambuilding and public speaking training to groups and organizations and is now located in its new home of Uptown at the Myrtle Beach Mall. Uptown is also available for meetings and facility rentals. For more information, visit www.carolinaimprov.com or call 843.272.4242.

Comedy Cabana The Comedy Cabana is Myrtle Beach’s own five-star comedy club,




featuring some of the top names in comedy. With performances every Tuesday – Saturday, and additional shows June – August, you are in for a comedic treat. Reservations are highly recommended. www.comedycabana.com

Spas Spas have become a major attraction in Myrtle Beach. Here are some relaxing suggestions: Her Body & Soul 8605 Montague Lane, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29588 Having been described by customers as “a day trip to heaven,” Her Body & Soul is truly a luxurious sanctuary and pure indulgence for the mind, body and soul. Featuring traditional customized treatments, massages, facials, mineral and milk baths, exfoliation, relaxation room, body wraps, masques, body polishes under a specially designed Vichy shower; after one relaxing and revitalizing treatment, your body will forever be in your debt. Dara and I enjoyed a wonderful Couples Massage here. For more information: www.herbodysoul.com The Awakening Spa at Anderson Ocean Club With a philosophy urging guests to leave stress and worry at the front door, The Awakening Spa ensures guests will return home relaxed and invigorated. Demonstrating the subtle difference of excellence, as Anderson Ocean Club – the spa’s professional staff evaluates and customizes all treatments to the guest’s individual needs, helping to achieve the inner peace and balance desired and deserved. www.oceanaresorts.com/myrtle-beach-resorts/anderson-ocean-club/the-awakening-spa.asp .

Cinzia Spa at North Beach Plantation The first of its kind in the Myrtle Beach area – and poised to compete with some of the best spas in the eastern U.S – Cinzia Spa at North Beach Plantation is the ultimate indulgence for a relaxing getaway. The 17,000-square-foot, brand new facility opened in March 2009, and houses three components to achieve optimal health, fitness and wellbeing: pampering treatments and rituals performed at the most indulgent levels, including Celestial Skin and Dermatology Wellness by Dr. Seymour Weaver, MD; a Med Spa wellness center with a variety of integrative medical and holistic services; and Beach Fit fitness center featuring state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, a team of personal trainers and contemporary classes. For more information, visit www.northbeachtowers.com/the_spa.cfm .

Dolce Lusso at Market Common With a philosophy to provide excellent service that touches your life,




gives respite and provides a positive impact, Dolce Lusso is a special experience to enhance any trip. This upscale salon offers guests a full menu of services including hair care, skin care and nails – and even some indulgent day packages – to nurture the body and the mind. For more information, visit www.dolcelusso.com .

The Hibiscus Spa at Marriott at Grande Dunes Offering peaceful and tranquil beachfront retreat within the Marriott at Grand Dunes resort, The Hibiscus Spa is an elegant, European-style spa with a dash of Southern hospitality. An expert staff awaits to take guests on a journey as relaxing as it is revitalizing, from an aromatherapy massage, Hibiscus Flower Peel, to even a simple pedicure. Either way, a visit to The Hibiscus Spa is sure to suit the senses and let spirits lift with the light of the day. For additional information, visit www.myrtlebeachmarriottresort.com .

Casinos Although gambling is not legal in the state of South Carolina, the city has access to one gambling boat, at Little River, which legally transports passengers into international waters beyond the reach of federal and state gambling laws. Casino Boats from Little River, SC The Atlantic Ocean is home to Myrtle Beach’s casino ships, providing guests with scenic and entertaining excursions that include gambling, fine-dining and live-entertainment. The five hour cruises set sail twice a day from beautiful Little River, just a short drive north from the central Myrtle Beach area.

CUISINE Food There are more than 1,700 full-service restaurants in the Myrtle Beach

area and it’s no surprise that seafood is one of the primary cuisines. Murrells Inlet is nicknamed “the seafood capital of the world” and Calabash-style restaurants are popular in the Northern Strand as well as Carolina Coastal Cuisine. Visitors will also find a range of other cuisines to satisfy their appetites including steak, ribs, barbecue, home-style cooking, international fare and regional specialties. Travellers world-over journey near and far to discover the unfamiliar and the types of tastes that distinguish forever-lasting vacation memories. Visitors to the Myrtle Beach area are in for a treat that pleases each and every palate with the area’s various styles of strikingly delicious cooking. The area is historically known for its fresh local seafood, rice, grits, sweet potatoes, peaches, berries and a fresh produce season that starts in early spring – making Myrtle Beach a paradise for every “foodie” to indulge.

Wine Hyman Vineyards Hyman Vineyards is a natural products company that manages all




aspects of its vineyard, including: growing, formulating, producing and marketing its line of natural products. By doing this, Hyman Vineyards is helping set the stage for alternative crop growing throughout the state of South Carolina and the entire Southern region, where muscadines, and other related botanicals, are native to the soil. The heritage of Hyman Farms dates back to the late 1800s where members of the Hyman Family have been farming a variety of crops in the Pee Dee area of Eastern South Carolina for five generations. With a shift from traditional farming to the 21st Century farming, Hyman Vineyards was created and since has become the main focus. The Hyman Family planted a muscadine vineyard just outside Conway, South Carolina, where they grow naturally sweet muscadine grapes for both medicinal and consumption purposes. The muscadine grapes have been around the rich, fertile soils of the South Carolina Pee Dee Coastal Plain for thousands of years and will continue to be here for the benefit of future generations. For more information and visitor information, visit www.hymanvineyards.com .

Restaurants Culinary Experiences on the Grand Strand:

At the northern end of the Grand Strand, North Carolina-style Calabash reigns supreme, with its traditional lightly-breaded, fried seafood meals. Calabash buffets – the most famous being the Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood – line Highway 17 for miles, offering guests hundreds of delicious options to choose from; everything from deviled crab to flounder and black bass. With wallet-friendly prices, Calabash has remained a steadfast cooking style since the Myrtle Beach area became a vacation resort in the mid-Twentieth century. Venture further south and travelers will find themselves in the heart of Low Country, where chefs utilize local ingredients such as Carolina rice, stone-ground grits, shrimp, blue crab, grouper and country ham, in traditional recipes handed down from the Gullah community of the southeastern coastal states. Today, young professional chefs in the Myrtle Beach area are taking this culinary genre to a new level with innovative interpretations of those traditional dishes. These “Carolina Coastal” chefs are using locally sourced ingredients, sustainable meat, fish and seafood, as well as regionally grown produce to enhance the taste and quality of cuisine. One of the most interesting spots to experience this style of cooking is in the community of Murrells Inlet – the seafood capital of South Carolina - where a slew of restaurants sit along the picturesque Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, offering a range of flavors for every taste and wallet.

Grand Strand Culinary Tours Grand Strand Culinary tours take visitors on a journey through historical




and culinary delights compliments of the Spaniards, Huguenots, Revolutionists and Patriots who shaped the cuisine of the area. The tours vary from a simple traditional lunch in Myrtle Beach to a walking culinary adventure in Historic Downtown Conway. For more information visit www.grandstrandculinarytours.com

Dive Right in to Cooking Classes Many of Myrtle Beach’s restaurants offer guests the chance to participate in cooking classes, learn the tricks of the trade and, of course, sample the finest cuisines! The Brentwood Restaurant and Wine Bar teaches the art of French cooking – from simmering sauces to creating tasty crepes. The Horry-Georgetown Technical College also offers ongoing culinary classes ranging from chocolate making to beer paring making it possible to find a class that will fit any palate. For more information visit the following websites or call restaurants directly for class schedules. • The Brentwood - www.thebrentwoodrestaurant.com • Horry Georgetown Technical College - www.hgtc.edu/ce

Here are some specific restaurant recommendations for special meals: The Brentwood Restaurant 4269 Luck Avenue, Little River, SC Owned by Eric and Kim Masson from Saratoga Springs, New York, The Brentwood is located in a beautiful Victorian home built in 1910 in Little River, SC. The restaurant offers guests an artful menu of an interesting mix of French and Lowcountry cuisine, emphasizing fresh and local quality products. There are three private dining rooms where diners can enjoy a variety of food, including prime rib, fish, lamb and poultry, to name a few. After dinner, guests can retreat upstairs to enjoy an after-dinner drink or a fine cigar and live entertainment. The Brentwood also offers French cooking classes taught by the French native, Chef Eric Masson and has its own wine club. For more information, visit www.thebrentwoodrestaurant.com .

Sticky Fingers 2461 Coastal Grand Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Their award-winning ribs and barbecue are always what initially attract hungry diners to Sticky Fingers, but it’s the friendly staff and casual environment that keep customers coming back year after year. “We all love what we're doing. In this business, you’ve got to if you're going to stay around," says Todd. Many of the employees who worked with Jeff, Chad and Todd at the first Sticky Fingers restaurant in Mt. Pleasant are




still around today. www.stickyfingers.com High Hammock As fine and comfortable as the hammocks themselves; Hammock Shops Village in Pawleys Island is home to High Hammock, Maverick Seaside Kitchen. This beautiful restaurant serves up the best Lowcountry and Southern cuisine, made with the freshest local and regional ingredients and prepared with a Maverick twist. Guests are invited to relax in one of several comfortable and attractive dining rooms or on the porch, just like families have done for generations at Pawleys Island. Lively, yet laidback, inviting and familiar, and always with exceptional hospitality in full swing – that’s High Hammock. www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highhammock/index.html .

“The Cypress Room” at Island Vista Located at the beautiful Island Vista hotel, The Cypress Room is an award-winning restaurant with a menu to please the most discriminating palette – and a view to match. With floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean, diners can gaze into the sunset over the ocean while enjoying the finest European-influenced Low Country cuisine along the Grand Strand; or start the day right with the restaurant’s famed Southern Breakfast. Either way, it’s a dining experience not to be missed. For more information, visit www.islandvista.com/dining .

Divine Prime Featuring a luxurious menu of prime steaks, chops and seafood, Divine Prime’s environment brings the concept of “the steak house” to a whole new level. The delicious dishes are expertly served along side one of the most impressive and extensive wine lists in South Carolina. For more information: www.divineprimerestaurant.com .

Greg Norman’s Australian Grille The great golfing champion from Down Under offers an innovative cuisine and a spectacular decor that makes guests feel like they’re in Sydney's finest harbor side restaurant. Each wonderful dish is a symphony of flavors and a tribute to artistic presentation. Chef prepared entrees execute exotic Australian fare with a touch of finesse. Dinner includes fresh wood-grilled seafood, steaks, chicken, rack of lamb and much more combined with world class flavor, ambiance and presentation. For more information: www.shark.com/australiangrille .

Rivertown Bistro Located in the Historic District of downtown Conway, South Carolina, the Rivertown Bistro offers unmatched atmosphere and unequaled




culinary fusions. The seasonal menu serves the best the local area has to offer. The Rivertown Bistro brings culinary artistry to the heart of historic Conway. Always innovative yet true to the southern roots so celebrated in this region of South Carolina, The Rivertown Bistro finds the perfect fit between form and function in food. For more information, visit http://rivertownbistro.net

MORE INFO Brochures Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Main Office and Myrtle Beach Welcome Center 1200 N. Oak Street, Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29577 Phone: (843) 626-7444 Toll free: (800)-356-3016 Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Airport Welcome Center, Myrtle Beach International Airport 1100 Jetport Road, Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29577 Phone: (843) 626-7444 Toll free: (800) 356-3016

Website For additional information on the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com or call 1.888.Myrtle1.

HOTEL PRIZE PARTNER

Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront 1803 S Ocean Blvd. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 United States Phone: (877) 946-6400 Experience an award-winning hotel in Myrtle Beach that combines the comfort of a gracious seaside inn with the fun and sun of South Carolina's Grand Strand. As one of the premier oceanfront hotels in Myrtle Beach, it offers the perfect stay for every guest. Parents and kids love the Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront - their oceanfront accommodations, heated pools, lazy river and in-room videogames make it a great place to rest and play. They even offer a summer kid's program to keep the little ones happy and active. Best of all, kids 18 and younger stay free when sharing a room with an adult.

Location Located right on the ocean, the Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront in Myrtle Beach, SC is among the top 10% of all Hampton hotels for consistently superior accommodations and service. Tripadvisor.com ranks the Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront as the #1 hotel in Myrtle Beach.

Facilities •Indoor (seasonal) and outdoor pools, kids pool •2 Lazy rivers •Playground •2 Jacuzzis •24-hour concierge •Guest laundry •Convenience store




•Fitness Room: Jump-Start Fitness Centre with Precor equipment, overlooking the ocean •Extended stays •Free newspaper

Accommodation Choose from 116 Myrtle Beach suites and rooms with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. All accommodations feature two-line phones with free local calls and long-distance access, as well as complimentary high-speed Internet access. From a cozy oceanfront room for two to a spacious beach front family suite, their Myrtle Beach, South Carolina accommodations are ideal for any vacation.

Families Parents and kids love the Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront, Myrtle Beach, SC. Oceanfront accommodations, heated pools, lazy river and in-room videogames make it a great place to rest and play. It offers a summer kid's program to keep the little ones happy and active. Best of all, kids 18 and younger stay free when sharing a room with an adult.

Restaurants No on-site restaurant, but there are plenty to choose from nearby. Enjoy their new complimentary ‘On the House’ hot breakfast. Menu items rotate and include such offerings as sausage patties, eggs and French toast sticks. A new blend of delicious coffee available 24 hours a day. If you are in a hurry, grab an On the Run Breakfast Bag at the front desk, complete with water, fruit, a muffin, and a cereal bar.

AIRLINE PRIZE PARTNER

Porter Airlines – see below www.flyporter.com

Flight details Direct flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on Thursdays and Sundays beginning February 28, continuing until May 30, 2010.

CURRENT DEALS Canadian American Days provides some great deals for Canadians. PERSONAL EXPERIENCES

I broadcasted the radio shows on location on March 13th 2010 from Myrtle Beach, staying at the Prize hotel, the Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront. Check out the Travel Show blog for some photos of the trip at http://www.christalkstravel.blogspot.com Here are some of the delights of the area that I enjoyed on my trip: - Hampton Inn and Suites Oceanfront Myrtle Beach (our base in town) - The Market Common for shopping - Sticky Fingers Restaurant - Her Body and Soul for a Couples Massage - Broadway at the Beach - Ripley’s Aquarium - Magiquest for our teenage son - The Brentwood Restaurant - Myrtle Beach State Park




- Carolina Improv Comedy Show at Uptown Theater in Myrtle Beach Mall - The Romantic’s Symphony Series Concert presented by the Long Bay Symphony at Myrtle Beach High School Music & Arts Center 7:30 p.m. (pick up tickets when you arrive) - Historic Downtown Conway, including Pop’s Glass and the Riverwalk - RBC Bank Military Concert featuring the 282nd Army Band at Beach Church, Myrtle Beach - RBC Bank Canadian American Days Celebration Expo at Myrtle Beach Convention Center - Good Vibrations at The Carolina Opry - Huntington Beach State Park for South Strand Wildlife and History Day - Drunkin Jacks in the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk - Brookgreen Gardens - Pawley’s Island Hammock Shops - Wedgefield Plantation for dinner

AIRLINE PRIZE PARTNER

Porter Airlines www.flyporter.com Tel: (888) 619-8622

Porter Airlines Porter Airlines is a regional passenger carrier based at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The airline currently serves Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, St. John’s, Thunder Bay, New York (Newark), Chicago (Midway), Boston, and has seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach and Mont Tremblant, Que. Visit www.flyporter.com or call (888) 619-8622 for more information. From its dedicated Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport terminal, all Porter passengers have access to a modern, comfortable and stylish lounge, including wireless Internet access, refreshments, and computer workstations. While on board, passengers enjoy complimentary premium snacks, wine and beer, a spacious cabin environment with leather upholstery and extra legroom

Myrtle Beach Flights Myrtle Beach now has twice-weekly roundtrip air service by Porter Airlines from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on Thursdays and Sundays beginning February 28, continuing until May 30, 2010. Porter Airlines features the only non-stop service from Canada to Myrtle Beach which saves passengers time by flying right to the beach. Golfers, families and friends can get away to Myrtle Beach's famous golf courses and sandy beaches more easily than ever with Porter Airlines' new winter seasonal service. One-way fares start at $179, plus taxes.




Connections are available in Toronto from Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Thunder Bay.

Porter’s Anniversary Porter Airlines celebrated its third anniversary in October 2009, having operated over 32,000 flights and set new standards for regional air travel. Highlights of the airline’s success over the past year include the introduction of service in Chicago, Thunder Bay, Boston and St. John’s, as well as flight increases for Ottawa, Montreal, New York, Halifax and Quebec City. The new $45 million passenger terminal has now been opened at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Porter’s main base airport. Passengers enjoy complimentary in-flight service, including wine, beer and premium snacks, all served aboard comfortable, modern aircraft. In the past year, the airline expanded its fleet and is now flying 15 Bombardier Q400 aircraft, up from six. Porter now serves 11 destinations across Canada and the United States, a considerable increase from the airline’s single route between Toronto and Ottawa when the airline launched in October 2006.

Billy BishopToronto City Airport

Porter fly from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport at the foot of Bathurst St. – the airport you can practically see from every office in the downtown core. So whether you’re inbound or outbound, Porter’s location and easy access eliminate the hassles (and the highways!) and make it easy to get where you’re going. Shuttle Service: The Porter shuttle offers comfortable and complimentary service between downtown and the airport, approximately every 15 minutes. Times may vary due to traffic and road conditions. The Porter shuttle runs from the west entrance of the Royal York hotel, at the north-east corner of Front Street and York Street. Ferry Service: A state-of-the-art ferry with increased capacity and frequency (about every 10 minutes) takes you to and from Porter’s newly-designed and newly-built terminal in style. But don’t get too comfortable – one of the world’s shortest ferry rides is merely 120 metres across Toronto’s inner harbour. Public Transit: Located at the base of Bathurst Street, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is easily accessible by streetcar (the 511 streetcar from the Bathurst subway station and the 509 streetcar from Union Station). It’s just minutes from Union Station and the Porter shuttle, so the subway, GO Transit, VIA Rail and PATH get you here as well. Parking: While paid parking is available, its urban location limits the number of spots with direct access to airport facilities. Porter recommends that passengers flying into or out of Toronto utilize the free shuttle service between the ferry terminal and downtown Toronto. Passengers may also take advantage of the terminal’s quick




turn-around by accessing the airport by taxi or car service. Parking is available at the south end of Stadium Road, two streets west of Bathurst St. and the ferry terminal.